God commanded the making of sacred anointing oil to anoint all the furnishings of the sanctuary as well as Aaron and his sons so that they would be set apart as holy. Everything anointed with sacred oil became holy. This signifies that it was dedicated to God. To carry out the holy priestly ministry, the priests first had to be consecrated through this sacred anointing. The anointing oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Jesus himself was anointed with the Holy Spirit at his baptism in the Jordan River. Likewise, through the anointing of the Holy Spirit, we can become a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, called to carry out God’s holy mission.

The incense used on the altar had to be made according to God’s command and used only for him. God warned that anyone who made similar incense merely to enjoy its fragrance would be cut off from the people. The incense symbolizes the prayers of God’s people. Just as various spices were blended together, our prayers should be sincere, broad and diverse. As we prepare both the anointing oil and the incense according to God’s command and use them for his glory, we must examine the intentions of our hearts, asking whether we seek for God’s glory or our own.
Application: Lord, thank you for setting apart your people through the Holy Spirit. May our unceasing prayers rise as a fragrant aroma to you.
One Word: Anointed, chosen vessel for God’s glory